 | The first Polynesians (probably 20-30 people at most) arrived around 500 AD. At least that's the most common belief. There is evidence of a much earlier visit from Asia and also from the mainland (South America). No one really knows - yet. Starting from an extremely limited resource base (chickens, rats and a few food plants), the Rapa Nui constructed one of the most advanced societies in the world for the technology they had available. However the demands placed on the environment by this development were immense. When it could no longer withstand the pressure the society fell with it. |
In 1550 there were about 7000 inhabitants. But after deforestation the population decreased dramatically and the society collapsed to one of inter-tribal wars over inadequate resources, slavery and cannibalism. Without trees they had no canoes, so fishing was limited to what they could catch from shore. To make things worse, without mulberry trees they could no longer make nets. With no wood they could no longer build structures so resorted to living in lava caves. The soil eroded so even their few crops were not enough. Following the arrival of Europeans their population was further diminished by disease, so by 1877 just 111 people lived on Easter Island, and only 36 of them had any offspring.
Wondering why the Rapa Nui cut down that last tree? There are a couple theories... One was a long period of droughts, the other they needed the logs to move the huge moai. Possibly it was both. Whatever the reason, deforestation was devastating.
| Once a year they celebrate the Tapati Festival for 2 weeks. This cultural festival includes feats of strength, endurance and dance. We were fortunate to be there during the event. As it turns out, the event this year was understated - they had decided to make it alcohol free resulting in smaller and more subdued crowds. This change actually made our experience watching the dance competitions more enjoyable. Even the the competition for queen was eliminated as there was only one contestant. (The cost of the costumes and activities is too great for most families to support.) |  Our incredible guides Today the Rapa Nui dress like us, live in modest houses, drive cars on paved roads and buy their groceries at mini-markets. They own their own land and receive considerable support from the government. |
For a small fee a young man posed with us in his dance costume.
 Ed and Penny |  Tom and Barbara |  Mel and Lyn |
 Karen |  Jeanie - oh, la-la |  Marianne |
 Steve and Carol |  Randy and Kathy |  Randall and Terri (me) |
 Gayle |  Caroline |
